Mercedes Adjusts GLK Option Packages

With 50,000 orders for the new 2010 E-Class under it's belt, Mercedes-Benz has been taking some steps lately with the GLK Crossover to boost sales and better organize it's product mix to fit the changing market conditions. This change in option packages is the latest change in the attempt to do that.

In February, Mercedes-Benz made GLK financing more attractive by offering a low 1.9 interest rate for up to 66 months.

Apparently, Mercedes wants the GLK to be a high-volume vehicle in it's portfolio, with an aggressive base price and high amount of advertising. Mercedes has viewed the GLK Crossover as significant, and these changes are reflective of that.

Production for the GLK's January launch was planned in June/July of last year (Good times, good times), and that resulted in the top-heavy mix of production and options going into launch. Too bad they weren't able to do something about it before then, but that's the auto industry for you.

To be honest, the GLK's styling has really grown on me since I first saw it! I actually quite like it now, especially in black. Definitely something unique, with a hint of G-Wagen in it's boxy lines.

With the economy like it is, people are less inclined to spend large amounts of money and are more frugal in the options they pick. Before a high percentage of models were sold competely loaded, hence the large amount of $40k plus GLK sent over. This is changing (they're sitting on the lots). The sunroof, an option many buyers wanted individually, was offered as part of the $3,150 Premium 1 Package. Now, it's available as a stand-alone for $3,550.

Also, navigation was included in the $3,350 Multimedia Package. A lot of people want the navigation system, but may not want everything else in there as well. This addresses that concern; navigation is available separately for $1,800.

Now here's the interesting part; buyers who purchased those option packages in February and April are eligible for a $2,000 refund. Nice on Mercedes! Not a move you see everyday, and I'm sure a welcome out-of-the-blue surprise for GLK buyers.